Australian authorities have identified Naveed Akram as one of the two gunmen involved in the deadly shooting at Sydney&rsquo;s Bondi Beach that killed at least 12 people and injured dozens during a busy weekend gathering.
Akram, a resident of Sydney&rsquo;s south-west, is believed to have carried out the attack at the iconic beachfront, which was crowded with visitors at the time. Police confirmed that his residence in the suburb of Bonnyrigg was raided on Sunday evening as part of an expanding investigation.
Officials said one of the attackers was known to police but had only minimal prior contact with law enforcement and was not considered a high-risk individual. Authorities have not yet clarified whether Akram was the gunman who was killed at the scene or the one who was arrested and remains in critical condition.
Police also revealed that an improvised explosive device was found inside a vehicle linked to the deceased attacker, significantly raising concerns about the scale and intent of the assault. Several other suspicious items recovered from the area are being examined by specialist teams, with an exclusion zone still in place.
The shooting erupted shortly after 6.30 pm as hundreds of people gathered near the beach for a public Chanukah celebration. Eyewitness footage circulating online showed two black-clad gunmen firing from a footbridge overlooking the crowd, triggering panic as people fled for safety.
In dramatic scenes, one attacker appeared to be tackled and disarmed by a member of the public before police intervened. One gunman was fatally shot by officers, while the second was taken into custody.
Authorities have formally designated the incident as a terrorist attack. While investigators have not yet confirmed the specific target of the assault, counter-terror units continue to examine possible motives and links.
Witnesses described moments of terror as gunfire rang out for several minutes. Several reported seeing multiple people lying injured on the ground amid scenes of chaos and bloodshed.
As the investigation continues, police have urged the public to avoid speculation and rely on official updates while support services remain active for victims and their families.

Bondi Beach Attack: Suspect Identified by Police

Police raid Sydney home after one Bondi shooter is identified; terror probe widens

Bondi Beach Attack: Suspect Identified by Police

Police raid Sydney home after one Bondi shooter is identified; terror probe widens

December 15, 2025 | 24:55 IST